While big names on the NFL Draft get picked on the first day, the real action begins on Day 3, Rounds 4 through 7. During this time, teams find hidden gems. These players often start quietly but end up shining bright. From “Mr. Irrelevant” to Super Bowl champs, here are the best late-round picks since 2011.
What NFL Hopefuls Face After Being Left Off Every Draft Board
Every year, about 250 college football players see their dreams come true when their name is called in the NFL Draft. This year, the draft returns to Wisconsin for the first time in over 85 years, with thousands making the trek to Green Bay’s Lambeau Field for the storied event.
While some players, like surefire first-rounders Miami quarterback Cam Ward and Penn State EDGE Abdul Carter, know their names will be read off by Commissioner Roger Goodell on day one, others will be holding their breath, hoping to get that phone call telling them they were drafted.
But what happens to those who aren’t picked? This year, 257 players will hear their names read and head to the NFL to take their shot at the big leagues.
For the thousands who get left behind, getting signed as an undrafted free agent is the next best option, leading to an invitation to rookie mini-camp, where players are evaluated by their new teams in a short timeframe. Successful ones, like Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterbacks Kurt Warner and Warren Moon, stick around. Others will fade, missing out on the 53-man roster.
For those players, the practice squad is the next best option. Practice squad players train with the team, helping mirror the opposition to help with game-prep for active players, and get elevated to the real squad given injury or performance. These players get paid $8,400 a week — not bad, but far less than the NFL minimum salary of $795,000 a year.
Some players will find their way, eventually crawling their way onto a team. Some players will look elsewhere, heading to the Canadian Football League or United Football League in search of playing time.
KEEP READING: Top 300 Prospects — Get Your Free Printable 2025 NFL Draft Big Board
Most college football players will never put on that NFL jersey. For the 257 who get the call this weekend, it’s the honor of a lifetime.
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